Arkansas Shocks Fans: Why Hiring Memphis QB Coach Mitch Stewart Could Change Everything!

FAYETTEVILLE — The Arkansas Razorbacks are set to welcome Mitch Stewart as their new quarterbacks coach, as reported by Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports on Wednesday. Stewart, 43, comes to Arkansas with a solid background in developing quarterbacks, having spent the last two seasons in similar roles under first-year Arkansas head coach Ryan Silverfield at the University of Memphis.

Stewart's journey at Memphis began as an offensive analyst in 2024, where he quickly proved his worth and was promoted to quarterbacks coach in 2025. His hiring is part of a larger strategy to maintain continuity within Silverfield's coaching staff, as four offensive coaches from Memphis are now making the transition to Arkansas. These include offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey, run game coordinator and offensive line coach Jeff Myers, and receivers coach Larry Smith.

The Razorbacks are looking to fill the quarterbacks coach position following the news that Clint Trickett is expected to accept an offensive coordinator role at the University of Maryland. Trickett was under contract at Arkansas through February 2028, which means he will incur a buyout of approximately $110,000, equating to 20% of his remaining salary as stipulated in his contract terms.

Mitch Stewart has a varied coaching background, predominantly in the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). Before his tenure at Memphis, he served as head coach at Murray State for five years, where he recorded a 19-37 record. After being let go from Murray State, Stewart held offensive coordinator positions at Samford, also in the FCS, and Middle Tennessee State in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS).

Stewart’s football journey began at Valdosta State University, where he played as a backup quarterback for the NCAA Division II national championship team in 2004. His experience on the field and off will likely be an asset as he takes on the challenge of developing the Razorbacks’ quarterbacks, a vital position for any successful college football team.

As the Razorbacks prepare for the upcoming season, Stewart's hiring signals a commitment to building a cohesive coaching unit that aligns with Silverfield's vision for Arkansas football. With the changes in personnel, Arkansas aims to revitalize its approach to offense and improve upon its past performances.